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Utility role is Green's best shot at Angels roster

9/18/13: Grant Green makes a diving stop on a grounder off the bat of Josh Reddick and throws to first for the out in the sixth inning

By Alden Gonzalez
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MLB.com |

ANAHEIM -- Versatility will be key for Grant Green's chances of making the Angels out of Spring Training.

Down the stretch last year, the 26-year-old former first-round pick primarily filled in as an everyday second baseman while Howie Kendrick was out with a knee injury for a little more than a month. But Kendrick is back now, every other spot on the infield is covered, and Green -- acquired from the A's for Alberto Callaspo in July -- has never really had his own position.

His focus this offseason was on second base, but he bought an outfield glove and realizes he may have to bounce around a lot this spring.

"It's huge," Green said of showing versatility. "It's the type of thing where if you can show them you can play multiple positions, it's an extra benefit for them to have an extra place to play you."

Green is a much better hitter than he is a defender, and he still has a lot of learning to do at the position where he's most comfortable (second base). He's bounced around a lot in his four seasons in the Minor Leagues, and Green believes he's capable of playing five positions if needed -- second base, third base, shortstop and the outfield corners.

"And I can play center if I have to," Green added. "I'm not going to be a defensive liability if I'm out there."